Can you ride a motorbike when it snows? Assogomma's clarification

Many motorcyclists do not abandon the use of their two-wheeled vehicles during the winter season. But what do the regulations say for the circulation of motorbikes and motorcycles in the coldest period of the year? For example, Can you travel with motorbikes and scooters when it snows?

The answer is negative: in case of snow on the ground, motorcycles cannot circulate. A ban which, as you recall Assorubber providing some useful clarifications on the matter, it responds to a logic of common sense, given that on a slippery surface such as the snow-covered one it is not possible to maintain balance and travel safely by relying only on two wheels. 

The directive of 16 January 2013

Assogomma, underlining that motorcyclists are not required to have winter tires or chains fitted during the winter period as is instead prescribed for cars, explains that in the event of snow on the ground they cannot circulate, recalling in this regard the directive of 16 January 2013. The latter states that during the period in which the Winter Ordinances are in force, two-wheeled mopeds and motorcycles can only circulate in the absence of snow or ice on the road and in the absence of snow phenomena in progress. If it snows, however, they cannot travel, regardless of whether they have tires mounted tires marked M+S.

The M+S marking – “Mud & Snow”, translated from the English “mud and snow”, is a self-certification of the tire manufacturer which can be shown on different types of tires such as: motorcycles, cars, heavy vehicles. In the case of two-wheeled vehicles, this marking indicates that the tire is suitable only for driving on mud and more generally for off-road use, not even on snowy road surfaces.

Assogomma summarizes its clarification in three points:

– It is possible to assemble and circulate all year round with motorcycles equipped with tires marked M+S as long as they have dimensional and performance characteristics identical to those reported in the registration certificate, unless there is snow on the ground or snowfall in progress. In this case, circulation is prohibited.

– It is possible to mount and circulate with motorcycles equipped with M+S marked tires with a downgraded speed code as long as it is for occasional or temporary use. In this case, a warning plate must be affixed which informs the driver of the maximum speed allowed. This equipment does not require an update of the registration document or authorization from the manufacturer.

– If you wish to use tires of sizes and performances not stated in the registration certificate, you must contact the manufacturer of the motor vehicle who will provide the appropriate formal insurance. It is only the manufacturer of the motor vehicle, not the manufacturer or retailer of the tyre, who can authorize alternative equipment to that provided for in the registration document.